Broekhoff Calls Time On Illustrious Career

South East Melbourne Phoenix star Ryan Broekhoff has called time on his illustrious career, after a professional tenure spanning 11 years. 

Broekhoff, 32, has represented the Phoenix for the last three seasons, and previous to that, spent two seasons at the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA, four at Lokomotiv Kuban and two years at Besiktas S.J.

"I have made the decision to retire from basketball," Broekhoff told South East Melbourne's website. 

"It is something that I have been thinking about for a while. I have always said that my family is the most important thing to me, and with the arrival of baby Ezekiel and us starting our own business, the timing feels right to step away. I look forward to being able to spend more time at home with them and starting the next phase of my life.

"The door may be slightly open still to coming back and playing, but my focus, for the time being, is on supporting my family and my business."

Across his three seasons with the Phoenix, the shooting guard played 57 games, averaging 9.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 0.7 assists, 0.3 blocks, and 1.0 steals per game.

"It was amazing being back home and playing for the Phoenix. Giving back to the area that I grew up playing in and being able to play in front of friends and family after being away for so long. I can't thank the club enough for their support over the last few seasons and to my amazing teammates over the journey that made going to work each day enjoyable," Broekhoff said.

After going undrafted in 2013 NBA draft, Broekhoff's professional career started in Europe, where he played in Turkey with Besiktas (2013-15) and then in Russia with Lokomotiv Kuban (2015-18). 

Broekhoff finally got his NBA call-up in 2018, signing with the Dallas Mavericks for two years, where he played 59 games and averaged 4.0 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 0.6 assists.

Across his professional career, the man affectionately known as 'Rowdy' represented Australia on multiple occasions, including under 19's, the Boomers' 2013 FIBA Oceania Championship squad, the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup squad, and the 2016 Rio Olympics team.

"I have been very lucky to have been able to play basketball professionally all over the world. I enjoyed every stop along the way from Europe to the NBA, but playing for Australia has been my highlight," Broekhoff said.

"What I will remember the most, though, is the friendships and teammates that I have had along the way. Those memories of road trips, plane rides, hotels and competing every day with amazing people will stay with me forever."

Phoenix CEO Tommy Greer praised Broekhoff's impact at the Phoenix. 

"Ryan has been a favourite within the organisation since his arrival to the Phoenix in 2021. Across three seasons, he has provided professionalism and leadership for our roster both on and off the court and has a deep connection to the south east community," Greer said. 

"After a stellar career in basketball, we wish Ryan, his wife Katie and his boys Jackson and Ezekiel all the best for the next chapter in their life. Our door for Ryan will remain open if he ever wishes to return to the club."

While Broekhoff will no longer be playing, his connection to basketball and the south east community remains strong, with the Frankston local opening a Hoop City franchise in Carrum Downs with wife Katie and fellow Australian basketball legend David Andersen.

"Now I get a chance to help the community in a new way with my business Hoop City South East. Being able to use my experience to help coach and improve basketball players and provide a fun, safe and positive environment to all who enjoy basketball. Hopefully, helping train the next generation of Phoenix players," he added.